How do traffic police handle vehicles without a vehicle license?
4 Answers
Driving a motor vehicle without carrying the vehicle license will result in the traffic management authorities impounding the vehicle, notifying the party to provide the corresponding vehicle license, and issuing a warning or imposing a fine. The legal basis is as follows: 1. Article 95 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China" stipulates: If a motor vehicle driven on the road does not display a motor vehicle license plate, inspection qualification mark, insurance mark, or does not carry the vehicle license or driver's license, the traffic management department of the public security organ shall impound the motor vehicle, notify the party to provide the corresponding license, mark, or complete the relevant procedures, and may impose penalties in accordance with Article 90 of this Law. 2. Article 90 states: If a motor vehicle driver violates the road traffic safety laws and regulations regarding road traffic regulations, a warning or fine shall be imposed. If this Law provides otherwise, penalties shall be imposed in accordance with the relevant provisions.
I once drove without carrying my vehicle license and got pulled over by traffic police for a document check. I searched the entire car but couldn't find it—probably left it at home. The officer was quite stern, instructing me to park for inspection of my ID card and questioning the vehicle's registration details. In the end, I received a 200-yuan fine ticket with a warning that repeat offenses could lead to impoundment. Luckily, my car wasn't towed, but I had to replace the documents before driving again. Since then, I've developed a habit of always storing my documents in a fixed spot in the glove compartment. Driving without proper credentials is like having no ID—it raises suspicions about the vehicle's legitimacy, causes delays, and might even lead to serious trouble.
When dealing with a vehicle without a driving license, traffic police will conduct an on-site inspection to determine the reason. If you genuinely forgot to bring it, honestly explaining the situation may result in just a ticket and a warning. However, if the vehicle is completely unregistered, the issue becomes more serious—police can impound the vehicle and even temporarily detain the driver. According to the law, driving without a license can lead to fines ranging from 100 to 200 yuan for minor cases, or point deductions affecting the driver's license for more severe cases. Impounded vehicles can only be retrieved after completing the required documentation; otherwise, long-term storage fees will apply. My principle is to always ensure all documents are in order before driving to avoid last-minute panic.
Don't panic in this situation. Traffic police usually check both the vehicle and the driver first. Not having the vehicle registration certificate might be due to forgetfulness or loss, and they may ask you to present other proofs. Common handling methods include: verbal warning, issuing a ticket with a fine, or worst case, having your vehicle impounded. After the incident, promptly visit the vehicle management office to apply for a replacement. Just bring your ID card and registration documents. The replacement process is quite quick, but it will cost a small fee. Always keep your documents handy when driving, regularly check your vehicle, and avoid unnecessary trouble.
